Finding Reason For Brakes to be Seized Up When Removing Trailer From Storage

Updated 05/29/2014 | Published 05/28/2014

Question:

Last spring and again this spring when I try to pull my 26foot trailer our of its storage area the brakes appear to be seized up. Do I need the batteries installed? Should they lock up even if the truck wiring is not connected to the trailer. Is it better to pull the trailer out without the truck wiring hooked to the trailer?

asked by: Bill S

Expert Reply:

If no power is being sent to the trailer brakes, either by the brake controller or the break away system, the brakes should not be applied. The fact that the trailer isn't plugged into a tow vehicle and the break away battery has been removed completely rules out any electrical reason for the brakes to be locked.

This leaves mechanical causes. You'll need to pull the wheels and hubs anyway, as they really should be repacked yearly. At this time you can inspect the brake assemblies to make sure everything is moving freely and isn't corroded. You can also check the wheel bearings to ensure nothing is seized up. The pivot points in the brake assemblies can be lightly lubricated (be sure not to get any on the brake shoes or drums.)

Please check the above and let me know what you find.

expert reply by: Mike L